Festival’s inside look at the media

The full program for the 2014 Noosa Long Weekend Festival has been released with a smorgasbord of cultural treats on offer over the 10 day event.
More than 80 events are planned for the festival that include an eclectic mix of music, dance, theatre, comedy, literature, forums, supper clubs and so much more.
Festival director Ian MacKeller said the program is certainly diverse and includes everything from burlesque to ballet to cabaret to cocktail capers.
One of the major events the festival is delighted to be hosting in association with Noosa Film Society is the Australian premiere screening of director Bruce Beresford’s two-part mini-series Bonnie and Clyde on 20 July.
“Bonnie and Clyde was one of the most acclaimed movies of the ’60s and this television adaptation will not only remake the classic story but also act as a prequel, delving into where both characters are from and how they came together,” he said.
“This event will also include an ‘In Conversation’ with director Bruce Beresford and festival favourite Peter Thompson at the conclusion of the screening.”
Mr Mackellar said for the eighth consecutive year, the festival would also welcome the host of the ABC’s Insiders, Barrie Cassidy, alongside colleagues Nikki Savva, Dennis Atkins and Malcolm Farr to provide insight into the nation’s political pulse and answer questions about behind-the-scenes in Canberra.
“This politically-focused forum will consider how the Coalition government is performing and whether it is meeting voters’ expectations regarding issues like the Carbon Tax, labour market, refugees and the environment.
“It will also look at whether Bill Shorten is leading an effective opposition with sound policies on key issues,” Mr MacKeller said.
“This is always a sell-out event so we expect tickets to this session will be snapped up quickly.”
Mr MacKeller said that the program included a range of both ticketed and free events such as the opening of Carnevale on Friday 18 July, which is a free event featuring Linsey Pollak and his band of 22 street performers and musicians known as the Unusual Suspects.
“Everyone is invited to join us as we welcome in our 2014 fesival with a great Carevale feel,” he said.
The Hastings Street tree will also be officially lit with festival lighting for the duration of the event and is sure to be a family favourite.
Mr MacKeller has touted this year’s festival as the best yet and with tickets on sale now the event planners are expecting to sell out.
To view the full program or purchase festival tickets, visit www.noosalongweekend.com.